"With the world's largest population, largest army, and fastest growing economy, China is now building a large modern navy to assure its status as Asia's predominant power. Yet, to date, the West has had sorely limited knowledge of what could become its greatest naval opponent. This major new study - the first in more than fifteen years - provides timely, authoritative information about China's developing navy and its quest for power.

Author Bernard Cole, a professor at the National War College and retired captain in the U.S. Navy, first helps the reader understand China's two-thousand-year-old maritime tradition. He then examines China's extensive territorial claims at sea and follows up with a path-breaking description of the nation's increasing dependence on energy sources mined from the ocean floor.".

"Dr. Cole examines China's navy in detail, its organization as well as the submarines, ships, and airplanes that make up its seagoing force. He also discusses the personnel who man the growing fleet and Beijing's efforts to shape them into professionally capable and politically reliable officers and sailors. He completes his study by discussing China's future plans for its navy, including doctrine and operations."--BOOK JACKET.